I can relate! I have two gorgeous Maine Coons that I'd have loved to have taken for this, but they will not cooperate with me and the camera - I have a heck of a time getting them to look up at me. They seem to do it on purpose!
Riley, is nowhere as camera aware as my Australian Sheppard is. I can take the lens cover off in another room and she will start to stare at the floor even before she sees me.
Riley has gorgeous eyes, though. I like his portrait!